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May 22

Our Duty to Others

In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you. For this is the essence of the Law and the Prophets. — Matt 7:12 BSB

This is an incredibly comprehensive rule of action. It calls us to consider the interests of others alongside our own. It asks us to place our neighbor next to ourselves, recognizing that they have the same rights and deserve the same treatment we desire for ourselves. This rule provides a standard by which we can test all our motives and actions concerning others. Whenever we face a situation involving our neighbor, we are to mentally switch places with them, asking, “If I were in their shoes, how would I want to be treated?”

Applying this rule would instantly put an end to all rash or thoughtless actions because it forces us to consider our neighbor before acting. It would eliminate selfishness because it demands that we care for our neighbor’s interests just as much as we care for our own. It would lead us to honor others because it places us and them on equal footing.

The application of this rule would end all injustice and wrongdoing, for none of us would willingly harm ourselves, and we are to treat others as if they were ourselves. It would prompt us to seek the highest good for others, even the most lowly among us, for we certainly want others to seek our highest good. If fully applied, this Golden Rule would resolve conflicts between employers and employees, fostering mutual respect and concern for each other’s well-being. It would also end strife in families, communities, and nations. Ultimately, living by this rule would bring about heaven on earth, as God’s will would be done here just as it is in heaven.


Daily Word of God - May 22

Public domain content taken from Come Ye Apart by J.R. Miller.


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